Lawmakers: Hang up and drive

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Lawmakers are considering banning the use of cell phones while driving without using a hands-free device. The House Committee on Transportation is considering almost a dozen bills that take up the issue.

If created into law, House Bill 55 would ban using a wireless device in a school zone without a hands-free device. House Bill 219 would ban use of a wireless device in a school crossing without a hands-free device. House Bill 220 would require drivers to use only a hands-free device. Meanwhile, House Bill 758 bans texting altogether. Other bills on the table would create different penalties for drivers using a wireless device.

Tuesday morning, the committee heard from different legislators that filed the bills. Rep. Dan Branch from Dallas filed House Bill 55.

"We're trying to find the right balance between public safety and, sort of, intrusion into civil liberties," said Branch.

The committee is set to hear public testimony on each bill Tuesday afternoon. The American Radio Relay League agrees that the use of cell phones can be dangerous but has a problem with the language of each bill. According to the league, a wireless device could mean a GPS device or even a TexTag.

"The only issues that we have with the bills are that they fail to define wireless communication device," said Glen Reid, with the American Radio Relay League.

The bills will continue to be looked at by the transportation committee.

Jason Deal tries to drive safely, especially with precious cargo in the backseat.

"Definitely, when [my daughter is] in the car, I don't answer the phone," said Deal.

However, like many drivers, Deal admitted, there are times he talks on his cell while behind the wheel. He said if it was against the law, it would finally force him to permanently hang up his phone.

"I think if the state removed the temptation, if would help a lot of people out," said Deal.

Victoria Vocelka knows it is dangerous to text and drive, but she admitted, she is a constant texter.

"We're all guilty of it," said Vocelka. "I text on a regular basis in the car."

"We're trying to find the right balance between public safety and sort of intrusion into civil liberties," said State Representative Dan Branch, (R-Dallas).

There are folks, who believe the proposed bills take away their rights. Others are concerned with the language of the bills themselves. The American Radio Relay League wants clarification on the term "wireless communication device."

"The only issues that we have with the bills are that they fail to define wireless communication device," said Glen Reid, American Radio Relay League.

If the legislation is passed, some people said it will be a tough habit to put the brakes on.

"The state can make a lot of money off of it, because I don't know anyone who has not texted and driven at the same time," said Vocelka.